Are British Shorthair Cats Hypoallergenic?

Ah, the British Shorthair – with those irresistibly plump cheeks, round copper eyes, and a dense, plush coat that’s simply begging for a cuddle! If you’re an allergy sufferer who’s fallen head over heels for these teddy bear-like felines, you’re probably wondering, Can I bring one of these beautiful cats into my home without triggering an allergy-induced sneeze-fest? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the world of British Shorthairs and allergies, and explore the truth behind the myth of hypoallergenic cats.

The Short Answer: Are British Shorthairs Hypoallergenic?

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but no, British Shorthairs are not hypoallergenic. In fact, no cat breed is truly hypoallergenic. While some cats might produce fewer allergens than others, all cats, including the British Shorthair, produce allergens that can trigger reactions in allergy sufferers.

The main culprit behind most cat allergies is a protein called Fel d 1, found in a cat’s saliva, skin flakes (dander), and urine. When your British Shorthair licks itself, this protein is spread across their fur, and as they shed, it floats into your home, triggering your allergy symptoms.

But don’t dash off just yet! There’s more to understand, and it might still be possible to cohabit with these gorgeous kitties with a bit of care and attention.

Understanding Cat Allergies: It’s Not Just About the Fur!

It’s a common misconception that cat allergies are caused by fur alone. While it might seem like the more fur a cat has, the more allergens they’ll spread, it’s actually the Fel d 1 protein that’s the true culprit. Here’s where it hides:

• In the saliva
• On their skin flakes (dander)
• In their urine

Every time your British Shorthair grooms, they’re transferring these allergens onto their coat, which, when shed, floats through the air and around your home, making you sneeze and itch.

Research shows that Fel d 1 levels can vary significantly between cats. Some cats produce much more, while others produce less. Interestingly, older cats often produce fewer allergens than younger ones, so if you’re a true British Shorthair fan, this might be something to keep in mind!

Why British Shorthairs Aren’t Ideal for Allergy Sufferers

While British Shorthairs are charming, their specific traits make them not the best option for those with allergies. Here’s why:

1. Their Dense Double Coat

We all know how snuggly a British Shorthair’s plush coat is, but it’s not just cute – it’s also very good at trapping dander and allergens. Their thick double coat sheds moderately throughout the year, with a bit more shedding during the spring and autumn, meaning allergen levels can spike around these times.

2. Normal Allergen Production

British Shorthairs produce normal levels of Fel d 1. In fact, they’ve been studied as part of research into cat allergies, and their allergen levels are on par with most other cats. So, despite their minimal shedding, they aren’t any less allergenic.

3. Grooming Habits

Like all cats, British Shorthairs spend a lot of time grooming. While this is adorable to watch, it means that they’re constantly spreading those Fel d 1 proteins over their fur, which they will then shed around the house.

Cat Allergy Symptoms to Watch For

Wondering if you’re allergic to cats? Here are the common symptoms:

• Sneezing and a stuffy nose
• Itchy, red, or watery eyes
• Skin rashes or hives
• Coughing or wheezing
• Difficulty breathing (in more severe cases)

Symptoms can appear almost immediately, or they can take a few hours to develop, depending on your sensitivity level.

Can You Still Have a British Shorthair If You Have Allergies?

So, are you doomed to live without a British Shorthair if you have allergies? Not necessarily! While they’re not the best choice for allergy sufferers, there are ways to make it work:

1. Try Before You Commit

Before bringing one of these adorable felines into your home, spend some time around them first. Visit a breeder or friend who owns one and see how your body reacts. Everyone’s sensitivity level is different, and some people with mild allergies may be able to tolerate a British Shorthair without too much trouble.

2. Create Allergen-Free Zones

Designate certain areas of your home, such as your bedroom, as cat-free zones. This gives you a safe space where you can breathe a little easier and have fewer allergens floating around.

3. Invest in Air Purifiers

A high-quality HEPA air purifier can do wonders to help remove airborne allergens. By purifying the air in your home, you can help reduce allergy flare-ups.

4. Regular Grooming (Not By You!)

Have someone else brush your British Shorthair regularly. This can help reduce shedding and dander build-up around the home. Just make sure it’s done outdoors so the allergens don’t circulate inside!

5. Consider Medications or Immunotherapy

Speak with your doctor about options like antihistamines, nasal sprays, or even immunotherapy (allergy shots). These treatments can help reduce your sensitivity over time and make living with a cat more manageable.

Alternative Cat Breeds for Allergy Sufferers

If you find that British Shorthairs are a little too much for your allergies, there are other breeds you might want to consider that typically produce fewer allergens:

• Siberian (they’re believed to produce less Fel d 1)
• Balinese
• Devon Rex
• Cornish Rex
• Sphynx (they’re hairless but still produce allergens)
• Russian Blue

While these breeds might be a better fit for allergy sufferers, remember that no cat is truly hypoallergenic – these breeds just tend to produce fewer allergens than others.

The Science of Variability: Not All Cats Are Equal

Interestingly, research has shown that there’s huge variability in allergen production between individual cats, even within the same breed. For instance, one British Shorthair may produce far fewer allergens than another, and this variation is due to factors like age and individual biological differences.

So, If You’re Smitten by a British Shorthair…

While British Shorthairs aren’t hypoallergenic, some individuals may produce fewer allergens. So, if you’ve fallen in love with the breed, it’s worth testing your allergies with a specific cat before making a decision. With the right strategies in place, it’s still possible to live harmoniously with these lovable, teddy bear-like kitties.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision

At the end of the day, it’s all about knowing your allergies and making an informed choice. If you have mild allergies, it’s possible to live with a British Shorthair if you take the right precautions. But for those with more severe allergies, it might be worth considering a different breed that’s a little easier on your sniffles and sneezes.

Your health always comes first, so if your allergies are more severe, you might want to look at alternatives. After all, a happy owner makes for a happy cat, and no one wants to suffer from constant sneezing fits.

Have you had any experiences with British Shorthairs and allergies? We’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!

Learn more: Take a read of our deep dive into Britsh Shorthair breed.